Did the Congress Government in Karnataka Fail to Use Powers to Fix Sugarcane Prices Under SAP Law?
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Synopsis
In Karnataka, the Congress government has the authority to set sugarcane prices under the SAP law but has not yet utilized it. Former CM Basavaraj Bommai criticizes this inaction, calling for justice for farmers. Amidst growing protests, the Chief Minister's recent decisions are under scrutiny.
Key Takeaways
- The Congress government in Karnataka has the authority to set sugarcane prices under the SAP law but has not utilized it.
- Former CM Basavaraj Bommai criticizes this inaction, calling for fair treatment of farmers.
- The recent decision to set sugarcane prices at Rs 3,300 per quintal is a response to farmer protests.
- Both the government and factory owners will contribute Rs 50 each to support farmers.
- Political tensions exist over the handling of sugarcane pricing issues.
Bengaluru, Nov 8 (NationPress) The Congress party currently in power in Karnataka has full power to set sugarcane prices under the SAP (State Advised Price) legislation established by the previous BJP administration, yet this authority remains untapped, criticized former Chief Minister and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai.
In a post on X, he remarked on Saturday that if the Chief Minister utilized this provision and delivered justice to the farmers, it could pave the way for a fair and legally sound resolution to the sugarcane price dilemma, as stated by Bommai.
He emphasized that the BJP government, during its time, enacted the SAP law to ensure a just price for sugarcane. This law grants the State Government complete control to set prices based on set criteria — including the expenses incurred in cultivating sugarcane, sugar production costs, the creation of by-products, market rates, and profit sharing between farmers and factory owners.
Up until now, the State Government has not employed these powers. Bommai advised that if the Chief Minister were to act on this authority and provide fairness to farmers, it could lead to a lawful and balanced solution to the issue.
The Deputy Commissioner of Belagavi district convened a meeting with sugar factory owners and was able to increase the sugarcane rate per ton from Rs 2,900 to Rs 3,200, earning the farmers' goodwill.
In stark contrast, the Chief Minister, after extensive efforts and holding lengthy discussions, proposed a mere Rs 50 increase per ton above the Rs 3,200 mark, which some factory owners accepted while others did not, noted Bommai.
“If a single officer can accomplish what the head of the State cannot, it inevitably raises concerns about the Chief Minister’s credibility,” remarked the former CM.
Nevertheless, he acknowledged that, though late, the government's decision to add an extra Rs 50 is a step in the right direction.
“Previously, I had urged the Chief Minister to step in and finalize a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with sugar factories to purchase electricity generated from sugar units at Rs 5.5 per unit. Sugar is a commercial crop and a staple commodity. Therefore, when the Central Government sets the price for sugar and its by-products, it does so with a balanced approach — ensuring that the general public is not overburdened while providing fair compensation to farmers. Thus, it is not fair to solely blame the Centre for everything. It is the responsibility of the State Government to protect our farmers’ interests,” he remarked.
Amid growing discontent among sugarcane farmers, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah conducted a seven-hour-long meeting and announced a decision to set the sugarcane price at Rs 3,300 per quintal.
He mentioned that both the government and the factory owners would contribute Rs 50 each, guaranteeing that farmers receive Rs 3,300 per tonne.
Union Minister for Food, Public Distribution, and Consumer Affairs Pralhad Joshi sent a letter directly to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday, expressing his disagreement with the blame directed at the Centre.
He stated, "It is inappropriate for the Karnataka government to accuse the Centre regarding the matters of sugarcane farmers. This is an unjust act that misleads farmers."
As protests by sugarcane farmers have escalated statewide, the Chief Minister's attempts to shift blame towards the Centre regarding the protection of farmers’ interests are unacceptable, Joshi emphasized.
Point of View
It's crucial to observe that the ongoing sugarcane price crisis in Karnataka highlights the complex interplay between state and central governments. While the Congress government holds the authority to set prices, the criticism from former CM Bommai underscores the pressing need for accountability and action. Ultimately, farmers’ welfare must be prioritized amid these political discussions.
NationPress
08/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SAP law related to sugarcane pricing?
The SAP (State Advised Price) law allows state governments to determine fair prices for sugarcane based on various factors, including cultivation costs and market rates.
Why is there a sugarcane crisis in Karnataka?
The crisis stems from the Congress government's failure to utilize its powers under the SAP law to set sugarcane prices, leading to farmer discontent and protests.
What actions has the Karnataka government taken regarding sugarcane prices?
The Chief Minister recently announced a sugarcane price of Rs 3,300 per quintal after extended discussions, alongside a contribution of Rs 50 from both the government and factory owners.
How has the BJP responded to the Congress government's handling of sugarcane pricing?
Former CM Basavaraj Bommai criticized the Congress government's inaction and called for justice for farmers, highlighting the authority provided by the SAP law.
What are the implications of the ongoing protests by sugarcane farmers?
The protests indicate rising dissatisfaction among farmers, which could pressure the government to take more decisive actions regarding sugarcane pricing and support.
